Is hospice just about dying?

No, hospice focuses on living and enjoying life to its fullest.  Hospice is a holistic approach to providing care in order to maintain dignity and comfort and enhance the quality of life for the patient and family.

Does hospice just care for people with cancer?

No, hospice patients can suffer from any end stage, incurable disease.  For example, heart disease, lung disease, renal disease or many other terminal diseases will qualifya patient for hospice.

Are all hospice patients bed bound?

No, many patients receiving hospice care continue to participate in activities.

They attend family functions, visit friends and go for walks.

Will New England Hospice “take over?”

New England Hospice is a team effort. The person receiving the care and

his/her family lead the team by defining their individual needs.

Is New England Hospice is limited to a maximum of six months?

There is no limit to the length of New England Hospice services provided the patient meets the criteria of a life expectancy of approximately six months or less. If a patient’s disease stabilizes and no longer progresses, a patient may be discharged from New England Hospice. The patient may be readmitted if the life expectancy meets the six-month criteria.

Does New England Hospice focus on the acceptance of death?

New England Hospice recognizes that we all have different and unique goals, beliefs and coping strategies. New England Hospice does not force discussions about the acceptance of death, but staff remain available to discuss any issues important to patients and their families.